Tokyo Packing Tips... So You Don't Forget Any Of The Essential Things You'll Need In Japan

We've put together these Tokyo packing tips to help you decide what to pack in your bags before you leave home. Make sure you've got all the essential items you're going to need once you arrive in Tokyo!

Don't forget your toiletries, deodorant and medicines. They're not as easy to get here

Tokyo may be one of the biggest cities in the world, but sometimes it's amazing what you can't buy here. Our Tokyo packing tips start with some items you might be surprised to see classed as essentials. For Japan though, you need to pack these to avoid potential worry and frustration during your vacation.

• Deodorant. Although this has recently become more available for men, it is still not the easiest commodity to come by for either gender. For women, the deodorants available just don't seem to work. Whatever the reason, you're far better off bringing your own so you can comfortably get on with your adventures without worring about offending the locals!
• You can buy most other toiletries here without a problem although you may not be able to find your usual brand. If you have a favorite, bring it with you.
• Tissues. A few packets of handy tissues are useful to keep in your bag. Many of the public toilets in train stations and at other major tourist spots regularly run out of paper. It's normal for Tokyoites to keep a packet on them for such occasions... or emergencies. We did warn you these Tokyo packing tips would cover every eventuality ; )
• Medicine. Over the counter drugs in Tokyo are different from those at home. Pack some painkillers, flu remedies, indigestion relievers, and anything else you think you may need. If you're on prescription meds, bring a few extra just in case. Be careful though. See the "Some medicines are illegal" warning box just below.
• Contact Lenses. If you use contact lenses it's worth bringing your solution with you. Again your usual make may not be available in Tokyo and if you have a particular preference or know that a certain brand doesn't contain anything you're allergic to, it should be on your Japan packing list.

Will your phone work in Japan? And how much will it cost?

We've talked elsewhere in the site about needing to check if your phone will work in Japan or if you'll need to rent a phone for the duration of your stay. It's one of our top Tokyo packing tips so it needs to be included here too. If you're looking to reduce the cost of your phone calls to the US while you're in Japan, we know a great online phone card product that'll save you a chunk of change. It's also a great way to avoid roaming charges (these can seriously add up if you're not careful).

How do they work? Ordering the cards is easy and can all be done online. Once you've made the purchase there's no waiting around as you can use the card straight away.

And who can use them? Just about anybody (as long as you've got a phone). They come with a smart phone application so they work with iPhone, Android and Blackberry as well as regular cell phones. Click the link if you'd like to know more about these easy to use calling cards.

Contraception, Condoms and Personal Comfort

We promised you the Tokyo packing tips you'll need for a pleasurable trip so there's no way round this one. If you are a condom user, consider packing a few in your bag. We've heard that size is an issue when it comes to your rubbery friend. Apparently the durex here can be a little tight at times... not that we'd know : )

Ladies, the contraceptive pill is also a rare item. When you can get your hands on it, there are only a few types to choose from. You are definitely better off making sure you have enough with you. If, however, you do need to get your hands on these tiny pills during your stay, try the Tokyo Medical Clinic. See the listing on our Tokyo emergency page.

Lastly. If you have a tendency to suffer from thrush and use canesten cream or an alternative, make sure it's in your bags. If you have no idea how to ask in Japanese, imagine gesturing to try and get someone to understand you!

On that note, a small phrase book should be tucked away in your pocket.

For part 2 of our Tokyo packing tips visit our vacation packing tips page. Pack the right things for the season you're going to be here...

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Taming Tokyo: The Guidebook

Wouldn't you love to find a guidebook that is just for first-time visitors to Tokyo. Find those all important things that only a local would know like: what to expect at the airport, what Japanese is most useful for a traveler to know, what packing tips are specific for Tokyo, what should you do in an emergency, the basics of using the trains, and much more. Head over to Taming Tokyo today and judge for yourself.